Living at the Fondation des États-Unis introduced me to other musicians and artists from around the world. Not only have I forged new musical collaborations, but I treasure the friendships which will last a lifetime.

And that’s what it was - 8 months of focused, un-inhibited work and collaboration. It couldn’t have been more enriching.

There is no other place where students can be together and share good memories, even if at home their countries are in conflict.

On the top floor of the FEU, I forged some of my most enduring artistic relationships, meeting painters with whom I have shared my work and exchanged criticism for decades.